Everyone at The Brick Community Stadium is heartbroken to learn of the passing of Sir William John Boston, one of rugby league’s greatest-ever players and a true legend of Wigan.

Born and raised in Cardiff, Billy made the journey north in 1953, joining Wigan and beginning what would become one of the most remarkable careers in the history of the sport.

Over 15 years in the famous cherry and white, Billy made 488 appearances for Wigan, scoring an incredible 478 tries, a club record that remains untouched to this day.

But Billy Boston’s legacy goes far beyond the numbers.

A winger blessed with extraordinary pace, power and skill, Billy became one of the most recognisable and celebrated players of his generation. His performances captivated supporters at Central Park and helped establish his place not only in Wigan folklore, but in rugby league history.

He was also a pioneer. Billy was the first Black player to tour Australia with Great Britain and, throughout his career, broke barriers both on and off the field. His journey from Cardiff to becoming one of the most revered figures in Wigan and rugby league remains an extraordinary story of talent, determination and perseverance.

His contribution to the game was recognised with his induction into the Rugby League Hall of Fame, the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame and the Wigan Warriors Hall of Fame.

In 2025, Billy received perhaps the greatest recognition of all when he was knighted by His Majesty The King, becoming the first rugby league player in history to receive a knighthood. His passing comes just a few weeks after it was announced his wife and soul mate Lady Joan Boston had passed away at the age of 90 on 23 July 2026, they had been married for 70 years.

For Wigan, however, Billy was always more than the records, the trophies and the honours.

He was one of our own.

His image, his story and his legacy are woven into the fabric of the town and its rugby league heritage. A statue of Billy stands proudly in Wigan, while generations of supporters continue to remember the excitement he brought every time he pulled on the cherry and white.

The Brick Community Stadium is proud to stand in a town that was shaped by sporting heroes such as Billy Boston, and we know that his name will continue to be spoken with immense pride by Wiganers for generations to come.

Neil Russell, The Brick Community Stadium Managing Director said:  “Sir Billy was a true Wigan legend and someone we were always incredibly proud to welcome to the Brick Community Stadium. It was a privilege to host Sir Billy and Lady Joan’s Platinum Wedding Anniversary here, alongside Lady Joan’s 90th birthday celebrations. Sir Billy will be deeply missed by everyone across Wigan, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”